By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 23: Sarawakians are urged to not take things lightly during the festive celebrations even though Movement Control Order (MCO) restrictions have been relaxed so as to prevent the second Covid-19 wave.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, in his Hari Raya Aidilfitri greetings message, appealed to all Sarawakians to be mindful of the guidelines and standard operating procedure (SOP) especially implemented under the conditional MCO.
“This Hari Raya Aidilfitri atmosphere is far different from our traditional celebrations because we have to adhere to all the guidelines and SOP during this conditional MCO period to curb the spread of Covid-19,” he said.
Even though the fasting month passed without excitement of the buzzing Ramadan bazaar and fulfilling prayers together in mosques and surau, he however commended the people for overcoming all of the challenges due to Covid-19 and conditional MCO.
“We have overcome all challenges and out of this, we have been given the opportunity to spend time with our families in various activities.
“Fortunately, with strict enforcement and close cooperation from the people, our efforts have been successful so far.
“Nevertheless, we are grateful to be able to fulfill our fasting obligation and celebrate Aidilfitri peacefully and harmoniously despite all the challenges of Covid-19 outbreak,” he added.
Abang Johari reminded that celebration is only permitted on the first day of Hari Raya with various restrictions, particularly not allowed to go to mosques to pray including for the ‘Sunat Aidilfitri’, visit close families and relatives in groups, hold open house, exchange physical greetings like shaking hands and observe social distancing rule.
“Treat all this as our challenges and responsibility to ensure that the Covid-19 outbreak can be dealt with as soon as possible,” he emphasised.
He also took the opportunity to urge people of all races, religions and political backgrounds to work together to maintain the unity and harmony in Sarawak.
“There is nothing more beautiful and meaningful other than enjoying happiness, prosperity, harmony and unity in Sarawak with all Sarawakians and Malaysians in general.
“Let us all celebrate this glorious day with the spirit of goodwill and brotherhood between people regardless of religions and backgrounds. Respect each other’s faiths and cultures.
“I will not be holding open house to receive all well wishers this year. But all of you will always be in our hearts,” he said while extending greetings of Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Maaf Zahir dan Batin, to all Sarawakians.- DayakDaily
